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                                            Prep Time: 5 Minutes Cook Time: 240 Minutes  | 
                                            Ready In: 245 Minutes Servings: 9  | 
                                         
                                        
                                     
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                    We started a 39-day Soup Challenge to eat healthier after the holidays, figuring if âSurvivorâ contestants could last 39 days on little food, surely we could survive on soup! This was a family favoriteâchunky, hearty and smooth. âDebra Keil, Owasso, Oklahoma Ingredients: 
                    
                        
                                                1 large onion, chopped  |  
                                                1 cup chopped celery  |  
                                                1 cup chopped fresh carrots  |  
                                                2 tablespoons olive oil  |  
                                                1 teaspoon dried thyme  |  
                                                1 package (16 ounces) dried green split peas, rinsed  |  
                                                4 cups vegetable broth  |  
                                                2 cups water  |  
                                                6 ounces canadian bacon, chopped  |  
                                                1/4 teaspoon pepper  |  
                                                
                     
                    Directions: 
                    
                        
                            
                                1. In a large skillet, saute the onion, celery and carrots in oil until tender. Add thyme; cook 1 minute longer. 2. Transfer to a 5-qt. slow cooker. Add the peas, broth and water. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or until peas are tender. 3. Cool slightly. In a blender, process half of the soup until smooth. Return all to the slow cooker. Add bacon and pepper; heat through. Yield: 6 servings (2-1/4 quarts).                              | 
                         
                         
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